Johnson Mathews of St Francis D'Assisi (Borivli) had a couple of reasons to be overjoyed on Friday. The 14-year-old starred with a brace in his school's 3-0 win over Bombay Scottish (Mahim) in the Mumbai Schools Sports Association (MSSA) boys’ U-16 Division I inter-school football match at Azad Maidan.

His joy was boundless because he had performed in the presence of his elder sister Joice, who is his guide both on and off the field.

Joice (24), currently employed with a travel website, was an avid school and college footballer. She played as a striker for Mary Immaculate Girls High School (Borivli) and thereafter for St Andrew's College (Bandra) before shifting her focus to the corporate world. She however, continues to offer football tips to her brother.

“My sister is my guide. She helps me with my football and in my academics as well. She always stresses on the fact that that football is a team game and individual goals should be kept aside. Whenever we win or I score, she treats me at my favourite fast food outlets,” said Johnson, who put D'Assisi in to the lead in the 20th minute yesterday with a neat shot at goal from close range. Four minutes later, he doubled the lead with a tap in. D'Assisi then took full control of the proceedings with a third goal that came from Bruno Colas.

D'Assisi coach Thomas Barretto appreciated Johnson’s effort. “This was one of our best performances. Johnson was outstanding,” he said.